Pope Francis (1936–2025)

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He served as the 265th pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 2013 until his death, becoming the first Latin American and Jesuit pope in history. His papacy was characterised by a commitment to humility, social justice, and interfaith dialogue.

Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis advocated for the marginalised, emphasised environmental stewardship, and sought reforms within the Church. He was known for his progressive views on issues such as climate change, poverty, and often challenging traditional norms to promote inclusivity and compassion.

In his final years, Pope Francis faced health challenges, including chronic lung disease and mobility issues. Despite these obstacles, he continued to fulfil his duties, making a notable public appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, before passing away the following morning at his residence in the Vatican.

Pope Francis hoped  to be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, marking the first time in over a century that a pope has been interred outside the Vatican. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from global leaders and religious figures, honouring his legacy as a leader who embodied moral values and inspired millions worldwide.